Full Breakdown
Unexploded Ordnance in Gaza: A Lingering Threat to Civilians
11/2/2025, 5:56:37 AM
The Impact of Unexploded Munitions on Gaza's Children
In the aftermath of the recent ceasefire in Gaza, the region remains perilously littered with unexploded ordnance, posing a significant threat to civilians, particularly children. On October 13, 2025, an incident involving five children, including 11-year-old Zein Nour and 12-year-old Joud Al-Anqar, highlighted the dangers of these remnants of war. While searching for materials to cook in the rubble near Al-Shifa Hospital, the children encountered an unexploded bomb, resulting in severe injuries. Eyewitness Mohammed Nour recounted the moment of the explosion, describing how the children were thrown into the air, leaving them in shock and covered in blood.
The Scale of the Problem
The United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) has reported that thousands of unexploded munitions remain buried beneath the rubble of Gaza, a consequence of the extensive bombing campaigns that have taken place over the past two years. Luke Irving, head of UNMAS in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, indicated that between 5-10% of the bombs dropped have failed to detonate, effectively transforming Gaza into a minefield. As of April 2025, the Israeli Air Force was aware of at least 3,000 unexploded bombs in the region, while UNMAS has identified at least 560 in accessible areas.
Humanitarian Response and International Aid
In response to the ongoing threat posed by unexploded ordnance, the United Kingdom has pledged £4 million to support demining efforts in Gaza. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized the importance of clearing these explosives to facilitate humanitarian aid delivery. This funding will aid UNMAS in deploying experts and equipment necessary for the clearance operations. However, despite international efforts, no demining equipment has been authorized to enter Gaza by the Israeli military, leaving local authorities and residents powerless to address the dangers.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics have raised concerns about the lack of action regarding unexploded ordnance in Gaza. Mahmoud Bassal, spokesperson for Civil Defense, highlighted the urgent need for specialized teams equipped to handle the explosives, stating that the current situation is intolerable. The ongoing presence of unexploded munitions not only threatens lives but also complicates recovery and reconstruction efforts in the region.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I suddenly saw people flying—I didn’t even realize they were our children.” — Mohammed Nour, Eyewitness
- “These are children. What did they do wrong? They were playing,” — Tawfiq al-Sharbasi, Grandfather of an injured child
- “Removing the unexploded ordnance to allow more aid into Gaza is a vital component of the recently US-brokered ceasefire agreement.” — Yvette Cooper, UK Foreign Secretary
What's Next
As Gaza attempts to rebuild under a fragile truce, the threat of unexploded ordnance looms large. UNMAS continues to raise awareness about the risks associated with these remnants of war, while international agencies work to secure funding and resources for demining efforts. The situation remains critical, with many families living in fear of potential explosions as they navigate the hazardous landscape left by the conflict.
